Praca Quinze Tours

Standing in the center of Praca Quinze is a way to literally and symbolically stand at the center of Brazilian history. It was here that Brazil declared itself a republic in 1822, and here that Pedro and Pedro II were coronated as emperors. It’s where slavery was abolished in modern Brazil, and where Carmelite convents and churches were erected as far back as 1590. It’s the heart of the city’s historic district, and when the city was only accessible by boat, was the first place that travelers would see the moment they stepped foot in Rio. Today, while much of Rio’s more popular sights have moved to the southern beaches, the Praca Quinze continues to exude a classic, colonial charm. Stroll past the former city cathedral and famous Arco dos Teles, and admire the Corinthian columns rising in front of Tiradentes Palace. This site also houses the Paço Imperial that served as a Brazilian political center for 150 years, and is constantly abuzz with the comings and goings of passengers riding the ferry. When spending a day in downtown Rio, Praca Quinze is the place to start a historical tour on foot, and while the square no longer exudes the grandeur it did in the 1800s, it’s still in many ways the beating heart of Rio de Janeiro.

Practical Info

Direct buses run from popular beaches including Copacabana and Ipanema. The closest metro station is Carioca, or you can also exit at Uruguiana and pass by Candelaria Church on the short walk down to the square. It’s also easily accessible by ferry, as the boat to Niteroi or Paqueta Island docks at the terminal nearby.

Take your Rio de Janeiro sightseeing experience into your own hands on this 8-hour customizable, private tour of the Marvelous City. Alongside a ‘carioca’ (Rio de Janeiro resident) and personal driver, you’ll tick off top Rio attractions chosen by you. Personalize your itinerary according to your interests and only visit the sites you wish to see: your guide tailors the tour according to preferred themes, such as food, history, or sport, and offers undivided attention throughout. Pickup and drop-off from your Ro de Janeiro hotel are included.

Get a comprehensive overview of Rio de Janeiro during this 8-hour private tour. With a dedicated local guide, hit all the important sites in town, like Corcovado Mountain and Christ the Redeemer Statue, Sugar Loaf Mountain, the famous beaches and the historic downtown area. Customize your itinerary to reflect your interests and enjoy informative commentary and personal attention from your guide along the way. Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle that fits up to 4 passengers. Round-trip transportation from your Rio hotel is included.

Walk through Old Rio on this afternoon sightseeing tour with a local guide. During this 4-hour outing, wind through the narrow lanes and baroque-style buildings while your guide fills you in on the history and legends of the area. Visit sites like the Metropolitan Cathedral, Carioca Square and the Imperial Palace. Round-trip transportation from Rio hotels is included.

Pay a morning visit to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Christ the Redeemer (Cristo Redentor), the art deco statue atop Corcovado mountain. Be treated to a panorama of Rio de Janeiro and Guanabara Bay, then continue your sightseeing in downtown Rio by subway and walk through the city with your knowledgeable guide who points out key monuments. This 6-hour tour includes pickup and drop-off at a central meeting point.

Explore the bucolic neighborhood of Santa Teresa and downtown Ancient Rio during this 4-hour private tour. In Ancient Rio, visit sites like the France Brazil House, Arcos da Lapa, Teles Arches and Praça XV. In Santa Teresa, admire the stately mansions from the early 1900s and view the neighborhood's original tram, built in 1897. Learn about the importance of both of these neighborhoods in Rio's past through commentary from your guide. Round-trip transportation from Rio hotels is included.

Explore Rio de Janeiro on this all-day customizable private tour with a guide. Whether you want to see the city’s popular attractions or places off the beaten path, your guide will be able to recommend the best spots, as well as ways to beat the crowds. The itinerary is based on your interests and is completely flexible. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Rio accommodations or from the cruise port or airport.

Visit Rio's highlights and landmarks on foot during a small-group sightseeing tour. Ride the subway downtown and follow your 'carioca' (Rio native) guide on a walk that includes Rio's most important historical and cultural sites. Visit National Museum of Fine Arts, Theatro Municipal, the Monastery Church of Santo Antônio, Ordem Terceira de São Francisco da Penitência and several other important landmarks.

Walk through historical downtown Rio during this 4-hour tour with a local guide. Ride the subway downtown, like the 'cariocas', or Rio locals, do, then start your tour in Cinelandia Square. Visit important landmarks like the Opera House, the National Library, Tiradentes Palace and the Church of Our Lady of the Merchants. Listen as your guide shares information about the history, culture, art and architecture of the area while you walk. Enjoy personal attention and an intimate experience on this small-group tour.